I tried to look through past posts and didn't find anything addressing this issue. I was recently put on a beta blocker to treat high blood pressure. I saw the doctor today and he feels that it is coming down nicely...from 180/104 (!) to about 140/90's in two weeks time although he increased my dosage. I didn't think to ask him this but here goes.... I am making myself nervous about having sex! My partner and I were intimate and after climax I actually started to have a little panic because I thought I'd have a stroke or heart attack. I feel embarrassed to even mention it and it's one more thing I DON't need to have anxiety over. HELP!

I don't know if this helps at all, but I was watching a TV documentary type show the other night and it was said that very very RARELY do people have heart attacks or strokes during or right after sex. Mostly it is good for you, gets the heart pumping, the blood flowing and releases all kinds of happy hormones!! I say...Enjoy and don't worry about it!!!

I have had high blood pressure for years. Am on beta blockers. I have sex.I am ok. Beta blockers lower your blood pressure and sligtly slow down your heart rate. I think you will be ok. Sex is technically like exercise, which is good for you. Don't let your fear keep you from enjoying your life.God bless

I was concerned about the very same thing and asked my doctor about sex, and specifically if it was safe for me to have an orgasm. He said to have at it!

Me again. I meant to add that just like you, I was scared to have sex, scared to work out , scared to do anything for fear of having a stroke or heart attack.My wise mother told me that I had probably had untreated high blood pressure for a long time before I knew about it. She pointed out that I had been having sex,working out, etc and that I was ok. She was so right. So reluctantly I tried getting back to my lifestyle and everything was ok. Again, don't let your fear ruin your life.Good luck and I wish you all the best.

Suzanne - my DH had a heart blip many years ago...the first thing the cardio guy told him was that sex was the thing he needed most ( thanks doc!) - we were both scared at first but honestly...it does release the good endorphins and no harm has come to him almost 15 years later Relax- enjoy your relationship...we do and still do...you will be fine..

CIC

Thank you everyone. I know you are right; and kenc, you made a good point...before I was diagnosed I was doing everything and I didn't drop dead then, did I? Gees, huh?

i've dealt with hbp for several years, have been on several diff meds and yes, have even had the very same questions regarding exercise and sex, especially after a hospital stay for high b/p last year. i was afraid to do anything strenuous for the same reasons you mentioned. when i questioned my doc about it, he said that it would raise the b/p slightly, but then it should come back down just fine on it's own, not to worry and just go ahead and do it!

gyz